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Brussels Griffon vs Golden Retriever

Discover the differences between Brussels Griffon and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.

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Brussels Griffon
Belgium

Brussels Griffon

Toy Group
Small

Lively and affectionate, this small breed charms with a big personality and expressive face. Sensitive and loyal, Brussels Griffons thrive as devoted companions and alert watchdogs.

Golden Retriever
Scotland

Golden Retriever

Sporting Group
Large

A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.

Quick comparison

Size:

Small

Male:

3.5–6 kg

Coat:

Rough or smooth, dense

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Female:

3–5.5 kg

Energy:

Moderately active

Size:

Large

Male:

29–34 kg

Coat:

Double coat, water-repellent

Lifespan:

10–12 years

Female:

25–29 kg

Energy:

High energy

Personality & behavior

Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.

Brussels Griffon

Friendliness
4/5

Affectionate and bonds closely with family members

Intelligence
4/5

Quick learner, responsive to training efforts

Energy Level
3/5

Moderate activity needs, enjoys regular exercise

Playfulness
4/5

Lively, enjoys interactive play and toys

Adaptability
3/5

Handles change fairly well, may be sensitive

Golden Retriever

Friendliness
5/5

Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs

Intelligence
5/5

Quick to learn commands and routines

Energy Level
4/5

Needs regular activity and mental stimulation

Playfulness
5/5

Loves games and interactive activities

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to various living environments

Care needs

Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements

Brussels Griffon

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (2–3 times weekly)
Exercise:
30–45 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates
Health concerns:

Eye issues, respiratory problems

Golden Retriever

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (2–3 times weekly)
Exercise:
60–90 minutes daily
Shedding:
Heavy shedding
Trainability:
Highly trainable
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates, tolerates cold well
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia

Suitability

How well each breed fits different living situations and families

Brussels Griffon

First-time Owner
4/5

Good option

Easy to train and adaptable, but needs regular attention and socialization

Apartment Living
5/5

Excellent fit

Small size and moderate exercise needs suit apartment living well

Active Lifestyle
3/5

Somewhat suitable

Enjoys play but may tire quickly during intense activity

Kids
2/5

Not ideal

Sensitive to rough handling and may be overwhelmed by energetic children

Multiple Pets
4/5

Usually compatible

Can get along with other pets if socialized from a young age

Being Left Alone
1/5

Prone to anxiety

Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues

Golden Retriever

First-time Owner
5/5

Great choice

Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage

Apartment Living
2/5

Needs space

Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Highly suitable

Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people

Kids
5/5

Perfect fit

Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children

Multiple Pets
5/5

Very friendly

Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets

Being Left Alone
2/5

Prone to anxiety

Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues

Breed strengths

What each breed excels at and their best qualities

Brussels Griffon

  • Alert watchdog with keen senses
  • Affectionate and bonds closely with owners
  • Adaptable to apartment living
  • Playful and entertaining companion
  • Generally good with other pets

Golden Retriever

  • Friendly with children and other pets
  • Highly trainable and eager to please
  • Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
  • Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
  • Strong retrieving and swimming abilities

Challenges & considerations

Potential challenges and considerations for each breed

Brussels Griffon

  • Prone to separation anxiety when left alone
  • Sensitive to harsh corrections or loud voices
  • Can be stubborn during training sessions
  • Needs regular grooming for wiry coat
  • May be timid around rough children

Golden Retriever

  • Prone to obesity without portion control
  • High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
  • Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
  • Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
  • Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions

Ready to choose your perfect breed?

Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.

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